Biblical Answer

To love our neighbors as ourselves in a world of division and chaos when our actions have global consequences, we must first understand the biblical context of this commandment. The Great Commandment in Matthew 22:37-40 and Leviticus 19:18 reminds us that loving our neighbors as ourselves is a direct result of loving God with all our hearts, souls, and minds. This commandment is not about self-love or autonomy, but rather about recognizing that human beings derive their meaning from outside themselves, from God in whose image they are made (Leviticus 19:18). As Augustine notes, we cannot love ourselves first and foremost and love God first and foremost; we can be ordered toward love of God, in which case we love ourselves properly too (Augustine).

The question of how to love our neighbors as ourselves is a profound one, especially in a world where actions have global consequences. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, we must remember that loving our neighbors as ourselves means being willing to make restitution and satisfaction for all injuries and wrongs done by us to any other (Leviticus 19:18). This requires a deep understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, as well as a willingness to prioritize the needs of others. As Augustine notes, we cannot learn to love our neighbors as ourselves until we learn to love God, and we cannot learn to love God except by learning to obey Him. This obedience is not just about external actions, but also about a deep inward transformation that allows us to love others as ourselves.

In a world of division and chaos, loving our neighbors as ourselves requires a radical commitment to love and righteousness. As believers, we are called to shine like a bright light in a dark world, even in the face of violence and hatred (Matthew 5:12-16). This means being willing to make sacrifices and take risks in order to love and serve others, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Ultimately, loving our neighbors as ourselves is not just a moral obligation, but a spiritual necessity that requires us to prioritize the needs of others and to seek the guidance of God in all that we do. By following this commandment, we can bring light and hope to a world that desperately needs it, and we can demonstrate the transformative power of God's love in our lives.